Chicken, Rice And Broccoli Casserole
A hearty comfort food casserole combining tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and fluffy rice, all baked in a creamy mushroom cheese sauce. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish offers rich flavors with a satisfying texture and easy preparation. Great for making ahead and serving warm.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the chicken in a large pot, then debone and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onion, chopped celery, and thawed chopped broccoli in butter for 5 minutes.
- Stir in processed cheese spread, mushroom soup, and evaporated milk until smooth.
- Place cooked rice in an 11 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Add the cooked chicken on top of the rice.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the chicken and rice without stirring.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more evaporated milk or using a different cheese spread. If you don't have processed cheese spread, you can substitute with shredded cheddar cheese, but the texture may differ slightly. Fresh broccoli can also be used instead of frozen; just blanch it first. This dish is a great way to use leftover chicken from The Best Of The Chicken.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You might also serve it with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious cheese sauce. For a twist, consider serving it alongside a light soup, like Creamy Chicken Salad, to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven set to 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings for 2-3 minutes, ensuring it's hot all the way through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken, Rice And Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 370 calories, with 5g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is a good source of iron (13% of the Daily Value), protein (11% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice in this casserole. Just keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time, so make sure it's fully cooked before adding it to the dish.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
What can I use instead of mushroom soup?
If you prefer not to use mushroom soup, you can substitute it with a homemade white sauce or a different creamy soup, such as chicken or even a vegetable soup. This will still provide a creamy texture while altering the flavor slightly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).